Rohan Bopanna, a name synonymous with resilience in Indian tennis, has officially declared his retirement at the conclusion of the 2025 season. Ending a remarkable 22-year journey, this 45-year-old veteran leaves behind an impressive legacy marked by two Grand Slam titles. His journey was not merely a tale of statistics; it was a vivid narrative of determination and the unwavering spirit that characterized his entire career.
Stepping into the professional arena during a period dominated by the illustrious duo of Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi, Bopanna navigated through an era rife with political strife and competition, managing to emerge with dignity and accomplishment. His trajectory defied the conventional narrative of early success, proving to be a beacon of hope for late bloomers in the world of sports.
Bopanna’s breakthrough moment arrived when he clinched his first Grand Slam title at the mixed doubles event of the 2017 French Open, a poignant achievement at the age of 37. He shocked audiences yet again by making a return to the men’s doubles Grand Slam final in 2023, a decade after his last appearance in 2013. A defining moment came at the 2024 Australian Open when he, at the age of 43 years and 10 months, became the oldest player to win a Grand Slam, cementing his place in the history books.
His extraordinary accomplishment at the Australian Open epitomized a fairytale that transcended typical sporting narratives—a seasoned athlete, often seen as an underdog, realizing his dreams against all odds. Bopanna claimed victory despite coping with significant physical limitations, such as the absence of cartilage in his knees, which inhibited his ability to undergo rigorous endurance training. His rise to the top signifies more than personal triumph; it stands as a testament to the power of perseverance—an aspiration for many aspiring athletes facing their own challenges.
Despite his achievements being seldom measured by traditional yardsticks, such as consistent high rankings or early career fame, Bopanna’s unwavering work ethic and commitment helped him navigate the demanding terrain of the ATP Tour. His contributions to Indian tennis particularly shone brightly in the post-Sania Mirza era, where he stood as one of the few prominent figures in the sport.
Bopanna’s journey was filled with remarkable milestones, including winning India’s only home ATP tournament alongside three different partners in recent years. His performance at the Australian Open represented the pinnacle of his outstanding career, amidst a series of records marking him as one of the oldest winners on the tour in 2023.
While Bopanna may have been overshadowed by his illustrious predecessors—Paes, Bhupathi, and Sania Mirza—his role in Indian tennis cannot be underestimated. His inclusion in the list of Indian Grand Slam winners cements his legacy, yet he often remained in the shadow of the giants of the sport. His career also faced its share of complications, navigating through the complexities of the All India Tennis Association and often appearing as a figure caught between the rivalry of tennis giants.
Despite these challenges, he found purpose in mentoring the next generation through initiatives like the “Doubles Dream of India,” where he trains younger doubles players. His ambition to foster growth within the doubles discipline illustrates his commitment to the sport’s future in India—a focus on strengthening current talent rather than lamenting the absence of singles success.
As Bopanna hangs up his racket, he will be remembered not only for his achievements on the court but also for the grace and humility he brought to tennis. His balanced perspective on victories and defeats alike, whether celebrating the long-awaited men’s doubles title or addressing the disappointment of missing out on Olympic glory, paints a vivid picture of a true sportsman.
In conclusion, Rohan Bopanna’s retirement marks the end of an era, but his story of determination and passion for tennis will undoubtedly inspire generations to come. Through sheer perseverance and unwavering resolve, he has etched his name into the annals of Indian sports history, leaving behind a legacy defined by hard work and dedication.
